In 2000 the Heart of England Co-operative Society launched the Helping Hearts Award scheme helping charities and worthy causes across our trading area.

Our Helping Hearts Scheme was launched in 2000 to support local charities, schools, community and self help groups. Over £1.25 million has been handed out to over 6,000 groups and we pledge to support more good causes annually.

We help with school activities, such as healthy eating and sustainability, fund sports team kits, assist with setting up community gardens, support festivals and lunches for the vulnerable, elderly, and homeless.

Awards are granted from £25 for a raffle prize to £1,000 for specific projects.

All applications are considered at monthly meetings where committees discuss and agree applications. Therefore, please note that it can be between 4-6 weeks before we will be in touch with you regarding your application. Successful applicants can receive their award in goods or a bank transfer.

All organisations must be based or operating with the Society trading area. The applicant must be a member of the Society and the committee decision is final.

See who we’ve helped…

Who we've helped

Barwell Bloomers

The Society was delighted to help the Barwell Bloomers create vibrant, colourful flower displays in the local community.

Who we've helped

Towcester Choral Society

The audience who attended the Towcester Choral Society Christmas Concert were kept warm thanks to the donation from Helping Hearts.

Who we've helped

St. Matthews Primary School

Children from St Matthews Primary School were excited to have additional books in their library thanks to Helping Hearts.

Who we've helped

St John Fisher Catholic School

Received funding for litter picks to keep the area around their school tidy and also enjoyed sessions in store updating their knowledge on Fairtrade.

Who we've helped

Battling Brook Primary School

Were delighted to support a store opening and received a generous donation for school resources.

Who we've helped

Girlguiding Bedworth District

Girlguiding Bedworth District used their award to add colour to the raised beds by planting bulbs and plants in our community garden at the Cross Keys Store

Who we've helped

West Mavericks American Football Team

West Mavericks American Football Team received a donation for their team kit

Who we've helped

The Hinckley and District Museum

The Hinckley and District Museum which is run by volunteers used ther donation support an exhibition of the history of the Co-operative movement

Who we've helped

Islastones Foundation

Islastones Foundation used a donation to support fundraising events to raise awareness of childhood cancers.

Who we've helped

Rugby Theatre Youth Project

Rugby Theatre Youth Project, received a generous donation for their Grease the Musical Production.

Who we've helped

Roar Cheerleading Group

Roar Cheerleading Group were supported to help with fundraising activities for their team kits.

Who we've helped

Rugby Lions Minis and Juniors

Rugby Lions Minis and Juniors Team used their donation for end of season team medals.

Who we've helped

Towcester Community Fridge

Towcester Community Fridge were delighted we could help with the setting up of much needed community food fridge to support the local area.

Who we've helped

St Peters’ Church in Brackley

St Peters’ Church in Brackley spent their award on fresh flower displays for a Bride and Blooms exhibition.

How to apply

To apply for a Helping Hearts Award, you can complete the application form here or you can collect a paper application form from your local Heart of England Co-op food store. If you have any questions or queries, please email [email protected]

Download the Application Form